The concept that proper positions, orientations, paths, methods (both defensive and offensive), maneuvers, weapons, and/or targets allow for a lesser degree of accuracy and yet still provide a high likelihood of success over alternative potential options.

Comments:

The general idea of Margin for Error is to allow for human error (as in heat of the battle) and still allow for success in either a defensive of offensive context.

In the context of size: taller is better than shorter, wider is better than narrower, bigger is better than smaller, etc.

In the context of orientation: edge is better than tip, path is better than line, more is better than less, etc.

In the context of travel: Path of Travel (e.g. Squeegee, Windshield Wiper) is better than Line of Travel (e.g. Finger Technique).

In the context of targets (offense): more surface (e.g. Open Ended Triangle, Center-line, Open the Gate) is better than less surface (e.g. Close the Gate).

In the context of defense: Universal Block is better than standard block, which is better than parry (due to surface area).

Margin for Error is associated with the term Change-up Point in that Margin for Error positions are typically also Change-up Points.

Example(s):

If a parry is delivered with the entire arm, instead of just the hand, it has a greater Margin for Error.

(i.e. The parry has a better chance of diverting an incoming weapon from its intended target, because a greater surface area of the limb can be used to make contact with the incoming weapon)

As one increases the reach of an inward block beyond a certain point (where it can remain completely vertical) the Margin for Error begins to decrease as it is extended further.

Related Definition(s):

Align, Center-line, Compensate, Line, Move, Parry, Path, Position, Target, Tip, Weapon

Related Term(s):

Close the Gate, Geometric Line, Geometric Path, Line of Travel, Open Ended Triangle, Open the Gate, Path of Travel, Squeegee, Windshield Wiper